heidilaf

Hi All. Need some opinions...

The AT OIL TEMP light on my '99 Forester (120K miles) started flashing today after driving for just a few mins. Any ideas what this could mean in a well-maintained "vintage" Forester?

Tranny was replaced under warranty around 50K and no probs since then.

My records show I haven't had the trans fluid flushed (receipt says "replaced" -- is that different?) for about 3 years/30K miles. Had a trans pan leak fixed about a year and a half ago. Assuming when I take to dealer for oil changes that "topped off fluids" includes trans fluid (yes?).

Was just wondering what this could be? I drove the car home about a mile and have another couple miles to drive it to the dealer on Mon. Safe to drive? Don't want to hurt my engine, car has to last me another couple years.

Want to be prepared for the worst but hope for best.

Thanks!

pleiad7

It could be caused by a number of things, but in general your trans fluid should not need to be topped off if the leak has been fixed. Have you checked the level on the dipstick? What does the fluid look like, and does it smell?

Also, have a look at these threads:
AT Oil Temp Light
AT Oil Temp Conundrum

__________________
-Silke
04 FXT PP PSM ~ "Subed"
98 Forester S ~ "Slynki"

heidilaf

Thread Starter

Hi, thanks for your insight pleiad7. Dealer says the transfer case needs to be rebuilt (if I got that right). Big repair where I live (over $1,500) and safety issue as they told me wheels could lock up. sigh.